Ultimate Blog Party 2010 - Bless & Boost Your Bliss Box Giveaway

Today starts the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom. When I was first challenged about beginning to blog, I was hesitant, skeptical, resistant, and slightly in denial about things like "virtual" parties and friendships. I don't want my relationships to be merely "virtual;" I want them to be real!!! :) Ahem... But then one of the editors of P31 Woman magazine gave me the gentle nudge that it was time to begin blogging as a way of expanding opportunities to encourage other women and spread the news that God's Word gives actual hope and help for busy women today. I need frequent reminders of that hope and help. And what a surprise that, along the way, I have re-connected with and newly made some very sweet friendships and "prayerships" that I consider to be real gifts. So for my blog ... what would I say?

I would say, "Come, have a peace," because I really believe that's what God says to women today who juggle work and home, relationships and dreams, navigating the unexpected events of life as it unfolds. I blog to express and celebrate all that God says about His purpose and plan for my life through the simplest and most ordinary of circumstances. My husband of 20 years and our two teens offer lots of inspiration, as does my background as a teacher, missionary, home school mom, public school PTA mom, accident prone miracle, women's ministry leader, and lover of the written word.

So, if you're on the "Ultimate Blog Party 2010" and stealing a few minutes to hop around, I hope you'll come back to be encouraged and find a little "peace" with me. You will read about anything from kids to camping to cooking to couples (on Marriage Mondays).

To add to the festivities of the Party, I am offering a giveaway through the Blog Party list (open to US residents), and I'm calling it the "Bless & Boost Your Bliss Box." You can win by leaving a comment on any post during the party week OR by becoming a new follower & leaving me a comment to let me know. Every comment counts as an entry for this gift to bless and boost your wedded bliss! This box includes:

A copy of "Capture Her Heart" and "Capture His Heart" by Lysa TerKeurst, a box of 12 assorted tea lights in the "family, dream, peace" fragrances from Chesapeake Bay Candle, a bottle of "P.S. I Love You" body lotion from Bath & Body Works, and a beautiful "Wisdom" magnetic notepad to keep close at hand. There are LOADS of other prizes you can win at the UBP too.

(And if I win a gift at the UBP, I would love #3 on the US/Canada list or #49, 75, 73, 84, 39, on the US Continent list. ;)

Blessings to you for a little peace .... No, for a LOT of PEACE ;) this weekend!